Cloves are widely recognized, though they’re mostly used in desserts—especially ones made with fruit. Treats like banana bread or pumpkin pie almost always carry a subtle hint of clove.
Still, cloves are used worldwide to spice up far more than desserts. They add bold flavor to jams, sauces (either blended or stuck into an onion with bay leaf), veggies, cheeses, rice, and even meat dishes.
Beyond enhancing your meals, cloves also offer impressive health perks. It’s no wonder they’ve played a role in traditional medicine for thousands of years.
1. Clove supports healthy bl00d flow
Clove oil helps enhance circulation, bringing benefits throughout the entire body. Plus, by assisting in cleansing the bl00d, it helps nourish the skin and boosts the strength of your immune system.
2. Clove acts as a natural painkiller and germ-fighter
Eugenol, a potent antibacterial found in cloves, helps fade acne marks, maintain clear skin, and reduce signs of aging. Drinking clove tea may ease headaches, period cramps, fevers, dental pain, and throat irritation.
3. Clove supports digestive health
Clove boosts the release of digestive enzymes, helping ease issues like bloating, nausea, constipation, and general stomach upset. It also speeds up metabolism, making it a natural aid for burning fat and managing weight.
4. Clove is rich in antioxidants
Clove delivers strong antioxidant protection, shielding the skin from harmful free radicals. It has a remarkable ability to generate hydrogen and block lipid peroxidation—a process that breaks down healthy fats and harms the body.
5. Clove supports oral hygiene naturally
Many toothpastes already use clove extracts to fight bacteria in the mouth and gut. So, chewing cloves may help freshen breath, prevent cavities, and ease pain in the teeth and gums.
6. Clove supports thyroid health and balances cholesterol
Clove may help regulate thyroid function for those with either overactive or underactive thyroids, while also supporting healthy cholesterol levels in the body.
7. Clove fights inflammation
Thanks to its eugenol content, cloves offer natural anti-inflammatory effects—helping to ease swelling and reduce signs of inflammation when included in your diet.
Ingredients:
• 5 to 7 whole cloves
• 1 cup (about 250 ml) of water
Instructions:
Rinse 5–7 whole cloves under cool water.
Bring the water to a boil, then drop in the cloves.
Reduce heat and let it gently simmer for 5 to 7 minutes.
Turn off the heat, cover the pot, and allow it to steep for 10 more minutes.
Strain and sip warm — ideally first thing in the morning on an empty stomach.